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Inspirational Quotations by Subramanya Bharathi (Indian Tamil Poet )

Chinnaswami Subramania Bharati (1882–1921,) popularly known as “Bharathiyar” or “Mahakavi Bharati,” was an Indian Tamil-language writer, poet, journalist, nationalist, and a social reformer. Regarded the father of the modern Tamil style, he wrote fiery verses stirring up patriotism during the Indian Independence movement.

Born in Ettaiyapuram, Madras Presidency, British India, Bharathiyar became a Tamil scholar at an early age, moved to Madras, and translated English into Tamil. He joined the extremist faction of the Indian national movement and was forced to live in exile in the French colony of Pondicherry.

Bharathiyar wrote many wildly popular nationalistic poems and essays during his exile. He was briefly imprisoned upon his return to British India in 1919, but two years later, a temple elephant in Madras killed him.

Those who are wealthy, give sacks of gold.Those who do not have much, give small coins.Those who do not have even that, express yourgood wishes. Those who are manly, lend your effort.—Subramanya Bharathi

Fools! Do you argue, that things ancient ought, on that account, to be true and noble! Fallacies and Falsehoods there were from time immemorial, and dare you argue that because these are ancient these should prevail?—Subramanya Bharathi

Those who seek freedom, will they seek anything else at all?! Those who desire the nectar of the heaven, will they hanker after country liquor?—Subramanya Bharathi

In ancient times, do you think that there was not the ignorant, and the shallow minded? And why after all should you embrace so fondly a carcass of dead thoughts. Live in the present and shape the future, do not be casting lingering looks to the distant past for the past has passed away, never again to return.—Subramanya Bharathi

You with strength less shoulders,a shrunken chest and a lifeless countenance!You with sparkle less eyes, volume less voice,fear-stricken heart who desire lowliness! Go! Go! Go.—Subramanya Bharathi